Myrtle B. Dokken

Myrtle B. Dokken, 90, of Moorhead, died Friday October 15, 2004, surrounded by her loving family and the caring staff of Eventide Lutheran Home, Moorhead, MN.Myrtle was born to John and Olga Wasfaret Hanson on March 3, 1914 near Ulen, MN. Myrtle married Melvin Restad in November of 1935, and they made their home in the Twin Valley-Ada area. They had two children, Donna and Roger, and moved to Moorhead, Minnesota in 1953. In 1963, Myrtle married Allyn Dokken and continued living in Moorhead. Myrtle was a long-time member of Trinity Lutheran Church and was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church Women Organization. Most of Myrtle's working years were spent being a cook at restaurants like Mattson's Truck Stop and Herbst Cafe. After retiring, Myrtle became involved as a Senior Companion with Lutheran Social Services, being honored for her long-standing service.Myrtle has been widely known for her excellent cooking and baking abilities and was known by many as one of the best cooks around. Myrtle loved playing cards and bingo, cooking meals for her family, singing songs, visiting with friends, dancing with her walker, talking Norwegian and driving her most prized possession, her car "Betsy." Myrtle was a very hard working, determined women, fiercely independent and very loyal to her family and friends. Myrtle treasured her family, demonstrated unconditional love, and gave new meaning to the titles of Mother, Grandmother, and Great-Grandmother. Although our loss seems insurmountable, we have great pride in knowing that the legacy of this gracious, magnificent women will live on in all those lucky enough to have been a part of her life and share in her love.Myrtle is survived by her daughter, Donna Larry Graffis, Moorhead, MN; one sister, Hazel Slininger, Moorhead, MN; two grandchildren, Pam Marvin Priem and Angie Duggan; and 5 great-grandchildren, Zachary Duggan, Mitchell Miller, Jessica Duggan, Logan Duggan, and Taylor Priem.Mytrle is preceded in death by her parents, her first husband, Melvin Restad, her second husband, Allyn Dokken, one son, Roger Restad, three brothers, Gordon, Ordel, and Virgil Nelson, and one sister, Olive Hanson.